22 Comfortable Wedding Shoes That You Won’t Have to Kick Off Mid-Reception
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Finding the right pair of comfortable wedding shoes is tough. While being able to dance the night away—pain-free—is definitely a priority, nailing down options like a pair of comfortable heels or comfortable sneakers that are also trendy (and actually go with your dress) require some extra digging. Whether you're looking for high stilettos with a pointed toe like this pair by Sarah Flint ($550) to complete your after party dress or you want something with a short block heel, like this Badgley Mischka sandal ($99) for that upcoming outdoor wedding, this comprehensive list of comfortable wedding shoes will give you the options you need to feel confident in purchasing a cute, comfy pair that is sure to last you year after year.
The Top 10 Most Comfortable Wedding Shoes at a Glance
Meet the Experts
How We Chose the Most Comfortable Wedding Shoes
When curating our list of the most comfortable wedding shoes, we sought insights from board-certified podiatric foot and ankle specialist Dr. Bob Baravarian and board-certified foot surgeon Dr. Brad Schaeffer to find out what makes for a comfortable option. We specifically looked for shoes that boast ample arch support, roomy toe boxes and cushioned padding in the insoles to keep you boogying on the dance floor during the reception. We also considered the flexibility of the outsole, heel height and heel width. Additionally, we tapped our savvy PureWow editors for brands they've tested—and loved—firsthand.
If you’ve looked everywhere and can’t find shoes you love, keep scrolling, because we’ve found 22 stunning pairs that may just catch your eye.
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1. Naturalizer Leather Everly Pumps
This brand's goal is to create comfortable-yet-stylish shoes for women, and these silver ones are made to keep your feet supported through your whole day. They have a padded footbed made to contour the shape of your foot and arch, while the low heel (just above 2 inches) will help your ankles from giving out. According to the brand, these run true-to-size, and one customer found them to be extremely comfortable, saying it’s “flattering [and] nicely finished [with] soft leather. I love how they make my legs look!” Enough said.
2. Nina Neya Satin Heels
These satin pumps will give some extra bling to your wedding look, thanks to a crystal- and jewel-accented buckle embellishment at the toe. And they just so happen to be approved by PureWow Fashion Editor Abby Hepworth. “I'll sing the praises on Nina shoes any chance I get. They have so many styles, all of which are so comfortable. These are the shoes I plan to wear [on my wedding day] and they’re just so chic, and I can wear them for hours.” Reviewers say that the medium heel height is comfortable to walk in and the enclosed toe box will keep your feet from slipping forward.
3. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star
Another editor-approved comfortable wedding shoe just so happens to be a pair of classic Chuck Taylor All Star high tops from Converse. “I wore white Converse high tops for my wedding, and they were supremely comfortable,” says Executive Editor Alexia Dellner. We’ll chalk that up to the brand’s ultra-supportive OrthoLite cushioning that’ll feel great as you hit the dance floor during the reception. The classic canvas shoe truly transcends modern wedding trends, and will surely make for memorable photographs, too. Most customers needed to size down by half a size for a perfect fit.
4. Bella Belle Viola Wedding Shoes
Still need your "something blue"? Wear it on your toes. These ultra-feminine, hand-sewn beaded heels have just the right touch of blue floral stitching throughout. Receiving a sweeping five-star reviews from Bella Belle customers, these heels are designed for all day comfort, thanks to the handmade construction and extra padding. The heel height clocks in at three inches, and is formed around a steel rod, so no broken heels for you. Plus, the ankle strap is a godsend for the thousand-and-one bridal activities you have on the agenda.
5. Dream Pairs Ballet Flats
According to more than 4,600 five-star ratings on Amazon, the rubber outsole of these ballet flats offers great flexibility for walking and dancing all night long. With a shiny rhinestone upper, they also up the glam factor on any outfit—be it your wedding dress or even a pair of Levi’s for brunch the day after the reception. Note: Reviewers say to order a half-size up as they run a smidge small. "They have a little bit of a cushioned sole in them, which is comfortable for me, as I’ve had some flats that have nothing at all," says one customer.
6. Margaux The Heel Suede Pumps
Want a sensible, cute option for your big day instead of towering pumps? These balletcore heels are equal parts stylish and comfortable, though some reviewers say they do require a small break-in period, so we suggest you wear them around the house before the big day. The heel is only 2.5 inches high and the sole has a structured-yet-moldable design to keep your feet optimally cushioned during wear. But don’t just take our word for it: “These are hands down one of the most comfy heels I’ve worn in my life! I regularly wear them to work and have had no blistering or aching issues after a long day,” writes one customer.
7. Aerosoles Landon Sandals
If you aren't so great at the whole walking around in heels thing, this style has a short and sturdy block heel to offer stability, no matter how long your ceremony is. They're made with the brand's diamond flex outsole to offer comfort and support to your arch while looking totally chic. Buyers are in cahoots over its all-day and -night comfiness, and the daring brides who are keen on the metallic trend will adore its gold glitter finish.
8. Birdy Grey Natalie Heels
Keeping it simple on your feet is a smart option—especially since the star of the show is obviously the dress. These vegan leather heels are amply padded in the footbed, combined with the low block heel, they're basically a foolproof comfort option (though we can't control if you're a natural klutz). One buyer found that the heel runs slightly big, and another mentioned that the toe strap material can feel quite stiff and cause a bit of discomfort at times.
9. Marc Fisher Ltd Suede Zala Heels
Keep things timeless with this closed-toe number, available in multiple nude shades. The low block heel is supportive and won't lead to any strain to your soles, and that pointed toe will complement many dresses and cuts, from a sleek column silhouette to a precious A-line. Reviewers say the toe box is great for wide feet, too. "I generally have wide feet, so I was pleasantly surprised that the shoe didn't squeeze my toes too much, even with the pointed toe. The height is comfortable, and the block heel is pretty stable," says one reviewer.
10. Dear Frances Leather Scrunch Mules
Mules are for the the bride who prefers the ease of slipping their shoes on and off (hey, it’s a long day). This pair is handmade in Italy from 100 percent Italian leather and designed to have a narrow fit yet flattering wide toe-strap for ample comfort. In other words, the scrunched leather arch straps on this chic pair won't cut into your skin and are super stretchy for lasting relief and support.
11. Jewel Badgley Mischka Cook Sandals
If you're a bride who loves some extra sparkle, these shimmery heels are for you. The mid straps ensure your feet don't slide around while you're walking down the aisle and the block heel is great for stability. The footbeds are cushioned to keep your feet supported while the heel strap holds them in place. One customer purchased them for her wedding and found she “especially liked the block heel, because my wedding dress was so ornate and heavy, so a thin heel would have been dangerous walking around in.”
12. Sam Edelman Peonie Square Toe Sandals
Don't want too much extra height, but still want some lift? We love these low heels, which are just over two inches, to keep your arches closer to the ground (ahem, easier on the ankles). “I've worn [them] every time I've been a bridesmaid and thanks to their low heel and padded footbed, they've stayed comfy throughout the whole day,” says PureWow Assistant Commerce Editor Natalie LaBarbera. And there’s an adjustable ankle strap that won’t dig or cut into your skin during your first dance. The best part is—like LaBarbera mentioned—you'll be able to wear these long after the wedding because they can just as easily be dressed down with jeans. One reviewer loves her pair so much that she chooses to wear them every day to work, “and my feet do not hurt me at the end of the day.” We’re sold!
13. Betsey Johnson Sidney Sneakers
Commerce editor Olivia Dubyak says these sneakers were a godsend for dancing her reception away. "I didn't pick the comfiest heels for my ceremony, and being able to throw these on while I danced was everything, and I didn't get blisters or need a sitting break at all," she says. We love the unexpected glitz and glam of rhinestones on sneakers, and this bedazzled pair has them in abundance—plus, a one-and-a-half-inch platform to give you a bit of height. Not to mention, it’s available in both a standard and wide fit, so there’s no need to squeeze into the shoe or double up on socks.
14. Sarah Flint Parker Sling 50 Heels
If you have a more vintage or boho style, these slingback heels with a sweet trail of nappa flowers across the vamp are a great choice. The footbed has an extra six millimeters of padding for an ultra-comfy fit and the heel strap will keep your feet nice and secure. Adorable feature: the “something blue” leather lining on the soles. "I’m a physician, on my feet all day, walking back and forth during clinic, these shoes have been professional but not boring and so comfortable all day long," says one customer.
15. Nina Stacie Satin Platform Sandals
These classic heels have a soft satin and suedette upper and a lightly padded footbed for maximum comfort. Available in multiple colors (including taupe, ochre and true silver), they also have a simple twist-front pattern that gives them an understated yet classy look. And the one inch platform provides a solid base and extra height without the pain that a traditional high heel would afford. But don’t just take our word for it: “Despite their height, these shoes are very comfortable. The platform and block heel provide great stability. I had borrowed my sister’s shoes of the same color and size and I loved them so much that I bought my own,” says one buyer.
16. Jimmy Choo Suede Ade Mary Janes
Ballet flats were all the rage in 2023, and we predict that the heel-less trend will continue well on throughout 2024. Easy to walk in and undoubtedly eye-catching with its pearl and crystal embellishment along the strap, these make a gorgeous choice for brides. Sure, they may lack a bit in footbed support, but they make up for it in stability. Plus, the flat heel ensures you won't trip down the aisle and they'll be easier to dance in.
17. Jewel Badgley Mischka Giona Sandals
At 2.25 inches, these heels are a solid option for an outdoor wedding since you won't have to worry about them spiking into the grass and you can avoid rolling your ankle thanks to the low and sturdy construction. We’re big fans of the Art Deco–style embossed plate at the front of the heel and the shimmer effect throughout. One buy mentions, ”[They’re] comfortable and true to size with great stability with respect to the heel. Jewel decoration just enough bling. No wobbling here.” Enough said.
18. Loeffler Randal Camellia Heels
How cute are the rounded heels on these? The taffeta bow strap on the front gives them a flirty element to complete your wedding look while the ruched and crinkled detailing provides an interesting texture that’s sure to complement your dress. Happy customers note that the shoe runs small so you may want to order half a size up from your usual size. “This heel is without a doubt my new favorite for a cocktail party, wedding or bat mitzvah. It’s comfortable and beautiful, [and] it comes in almost every color so you can't go wrong with matching the shoe to your outfit. Lots of compliments await. From walking to dancing, this heel is easy to wear,” says one satisfied customer.
19. Alohas Cannes Heels
Equally sexy and classy, these backless heels have two thin straps, with one strap farther up on the foot to ensure they stay secure while you walk. “This is the most elegant pair of heels,” writes one customer. “The thicker heel makes it easier to walk in, [plus] I love the shape of the straps that elongate the ankle and accentuates the legs more.” We also love the heel shape and the simple design because, let’s face it, your dress is the star of the show.
20. Sarah Flint Wedding Perfect 85 Pumps
A pearlescent white pump is a great option for basically any wedding dress style. But it’s worth noting that with a heel of just over three inches, these may not be right for you if you’re not comfortable walking in pumps (although the center steel-rod heel does provide extra stability). The footbed is made with anatomical arch support for your instep and the wider toe box provides more breathing room.
21. Bella Belle Hera Leather Sandals
From getting ready in the morning to dancing the night away, a pair of sandals can go a long way when it comes to wedding accessories. The brand says the handmade design is engineered to ensure comfortable wear for up to 12 hours, which is a godsend for a day of wedding duties. The pearl and rhinestone details on this pair take them from casual to bridal and the slight heeled bottom give them extra support, making these more comfortable than a completely flat pair. (Psst...they even have a light blue outsole that could pass as your something blue.)
22. Nisolo Stella Go-To Block Sandals
Made of a super breathable, waterproof leather, these shoes are going to be great if you get some rain on your wedding day. They have a shock-absorbing, cushioned insole to keep your arch supported, and the flared block heel will help you feel stabilized during all the standing and dancing. "I tried these for a long event and my feet felt great even after hours of wear. The straps are the perfect width, and ditto for the heel height," one reviewer notes.
What to Look for in Comfortable Wedding Shoes
The ideal pair of wedding shoes comes down to a few key things: arch support, height and heel shape. You know your feet best, so if you know you can't withstand pointed, close-toed heels, opt for a pair of heeled sandals instead. "If you're attending an event that requires wearing heels for a long period of time, heels with a platform are a more comfortable option because they relieve the feet from the extreme arch that non-platformed heels have. Heel height and width plays a great part in the comfort of the shoes as well and can make a huge difference in how your feet feel if you opt for a shorter or chunkier heel," says Dr. Brad Schaeffer, DPM.
Another great option? "Open-toed heels avoid toe crowding which can create a lot of discomfort while standing, walking or dancing for long periods of time," advises Dr. Schaeffer.
Have a high instep? Extra arch support will be your best friend. If you have bunions, you'll probably want to avoid a pointed toe. And according to Dr. Bob Baravarian, DPM, FACFAS, there are a few things you can look for. "Good shoes for bunions will have a wide toe box, good arch support, and a cushioned footbed," he mentions on The Bunion Institute.
How Do I Stop My Wedding Shoes from Hurting?
Aside from the obvious (ahem, taking them off), if your heels are especially painful, you may want to chat with your podiatrist about cushioned inserts or a sensible shoe option that will help you make it through your wedding day. For example, if you have bunions, your heels may put you in more extreme pain. "For less severe bunions, over-the-counter inserts can also provide relief from foot pain. You can find inserts with extra arch support, memory foam, and cushioned heels. Some over-the-counter inserts are also labeled with the condition they aim to help with," says Baravarian. Pro tip: Break in your shoes before you walk down the aisle by wearing them around the house a few times.
Where to Buy A Wedding Dress Online That Actually Fits
Why You Should Trust Us
PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
